A.M. Top News: Congress to consider legislation aimed at qualifying young illegal immigrants for U.S. citizenship

AP Photo/Paul ConnorsProtesters took to the streets in Arizona to voice their opposition to the state's illegal immigration bill.

Congress is mulling over proposed legislation that would get some illegal immigrants on the path to U.S. citizenship. The DREAM act, aimed at those brought into the country illegally by their parents, would qualify immigrants for residency if they complete two years of college or military service.

Potential qualifiers would have to have entered the country by age 16, pass a background check, graduate high school and attend college or join the U.S. armed forced for at least two years.

The bill faces long odds in the Senate, however, with critics arguing it is still a form of amnesty. The estimated $6 billion price tag per year also doesn't sit well with opponents who claim it would mean fewer jobs for U.S.-born workers.

With backing from Democratic leaders, supporters have staged protests in congressional offices, held candlelight vigils and used television ads to promote their cause.